15 Things to Do in Oita: Japan

If you did not think Japan had amazing hot springs, then you do not know of Oita. This coastal town boasts many hot springs as its main attraction, as well as others that will surprise you. Skip Tokyo, and head straight to Oita on your next trip.

1. Bathe at Beppu Onsen

The #1 attraction in Oita is the collection of hot springs in Beppu Onsen. There are eight major areas (also called “Hells” ) for dipping and enjoying the thermal, rejuvenating waters. There are many resources in these springs which attract visitors.

Information

Name: Beppu Onsen

Address: Beppu, Oita Prefecture 874-0000, Japan

Website: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beppu_Onsen

2. Hike Yufudake

Go for a hike to get the hilltop view of Oita from Yufudake. The hike can go on for four hours, or as short as you like. There are two trails to choose from, both of which are ok for beginners. The mountains are stunning and so are the trees. In the winter time, the frozen trees make it a winter wonderland.

Information

Name: Yufudake

Address: Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu 879-5102, Oita Prefecture

Website: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Yufu

3. Visit the Volcanic Grounds of Mount Tsurumi

Visit the volcanic mountain of Mount Tsurumi when in Oita. It is only a 15-minute walk by ropeway or if you want to reach the absolute top, it can take 2.5 hours total. There are multiple observation decks within the mountain tops and don’t miss the small park while you are there.

Information

4. Visit Usa Shrine

Take the time to visit Usa Shrine to dive into the history of Oita. It is a Shinto Shrine whose main hall and the Kujaku Monkei are names Japan’s national treasures. One of the best festivals held at this shrine includes the release of captive birds and fish.

Information

Name: Usa Shrine

Address: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4722.html

Price: Free

Hours: 530pm-9pm

Website: http://www.usajinguu.com/

5. Go to a Sporting Event

Take a look at this dome-like stadium. When you visit the Ōita Stadium, also known as “The Big Eye”. There are many sporting events that take place, and a football game is the one you should definitely attend. In 2019, the Rugby World Cup will be held here.

Information

Name: Ōita Stadium

Address: 1351 Yokoo, Oita, Oita Prefecture 870-0126, Japan

Website: http://www.oita-sportspark.jp/

6. Learn the History of the City

The best museum in Oita is the Ōita Prefectural Museum of History. This museum is one of a few that is supported by a prefecture. Explore the many Buddhist exhibits and learn about how Oita came to be.

Information

Name: Ōita Prefectural Museum of History

Address: Aza Kyozuka, Oaza Takamori, Usa-shi, Oita

Price: 300 yen

Hours: 9am-7pm

Holiday: Dec. 28-Jan. 4 and Mondays

Website: http://kyouiku.oita-ed.jp/rekisihakubutukan-b/

7. Cross the Famous Tunnel

Aonodōmon is an attraction which is located in the gorge of Yabakei. There is a tunnel which holds the story of how many died trying to pass over to the other side. Now, it is paved and offers an outlook onto the sea and cliffs surrounding the area.

Information

Name:Aonodōmon

Address: Japan, 〒871-0202 大分県中津市本耶馬渓町曽木

Website: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aonod%C5%8Dmon

8. Climb a Famous Mountain

For mountain sports and visiting one of the 100 famous mountains in Japan, go to Mount Sobo. There are many climbing routes, hiking trails, volcanic rock, and even a forest.

Information

Name: Mount Sobo

Website: http://www.mountain-forecast.com/peaks/Mount-Sobo

9. Watch the Car Races

If you enjoy the life of the fast and the furious, head to Autopolis. Here, you will find an international racing spot. Watch the races and get that seat in the first row if you can.

Information

Name: Autopolis

Hours: 9am-5pm

Website: http://www.autopolis.jp/

10. Visit the Observation Deck

Beppu Tower is one of the most iconic buildings in the downtown area of Oita. Beppu Tower is mainly a communications tower which has an observation deck open to the public. At 100 meters tall, the view you will get is unforgettable.

Information

Name: Beppu Tower

Address: 3-10-2 Oita Prefecture

Website: http://bepputower.co.jp/

11. Spend a Day at the Zoo

Do you love animals? You will love Takasakiyama Natural Zoo. The Monkey Mountain is the best, Go for the tram ride, you will not forget it.

Information

Name: Takasakiyama Natural Zoo

Address: 3098-1 Tanoura, Oita 870-0802, Oita Prefecture

Website: http://www.takasakiyama.jp/#_=_

12. Take a Boat Ride

For some water fun during your trip, add a day of exploring Lake Kinrin. On the smaller side, it offers plenty. Relax, go for a boat ride and enjoy some refreshments. If you like, you can hike up the mountain in the background.

Information

Name: Lake Kinrin

Address: Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu 879-5102, Oita Prefecture

Website: Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu 879-5102, Oita Prefecture

13. Go Shopping

Are you a shopaholic? Spend a day or more, at the JR Oita City. There are 8 levels total, which include shops, entertainment centers, a hotel, and a playground. You can find everything you need here, and take the time to notice the nice sculptures along the way.

Information

Name: JR Oita City

Address: 1-1-5 Suehiromachi, Oita 870-0027, Oita Prefecture

Holiday:Website: http://www.jroitacity.jp/#_=_

14. Have a Beach Day

A day in the sun in Oita is not complete without visiting Tanoura Beach. Go for a swim, enjoy the seaside park, take a stroll and look out into the scenery. The water is blue and summer gets crowded with swimmers looking for a refreshing dip.

Information

Name: Tanoura Beach

Address: Tanoura, Oita 870-0802, Oita Prefecture

Website: http://beppuftio.blogspot.com/2011/10/tanoura-beach.html

15. Visit the Ruins

Take a visit over to Funai Castle Ruins where you can roam around the castle. The main area of the ruins is the main attraction within as well as the small pond.

Information

Name: Funai Castle Ruins

Address: 4 Niagemachi, Oita 870-0046, Oita Prefecture

Website: http://www.visit-oita.jp/feature/2011_autumn/funai.html#_=_

Oita is a great Japanese destination for the outdoors, the ocean, and the mountains. As refreshing as Oita is, the indoor attractions are just as attractive as the outdoors. We hope you enjoy our top fifteen choices.